Ahead of Summer Travel Season, Rep. Pettersen Leads CO Dem Delegation in Demanding Answers from Trump as Gas Prices Surge Amid Iran War

WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) led the Colorado Democratic delegation in demanding answers from President Donald Trump about his Administration's plan to lower gasoline prices. Recent reports show Colorado is now one of the ten most expensive gasoline markets in the nation, with prices surpassing $4.76 per gallon - more than 60 percent higher than before the conflict and the highest increase in six decades.

Analysts warn prices could continue rising throughout the summer travel season, further straining family budgets already stretched by the rising cost of housing, groceries, and other essentials.

In the Letter, the lawmakers wrote: "We are deeply concerned that, by your own account, you "don't think about Americans' financial situation" when negotiating with Iran, at a time when Americans continue to struggle to pay for groceries, housing, and everyday essentials. Coloradans need a plan for how you intend to deliver relief as families are being crushed by rising costs."

The lawmakers continued, "Summer travel is an important tradition for families across our country, whether it be taking well-earned time off to visit family or driving through small towns and gateway communities to visit National Parks and other treasured American destinations. Rising fuel prices will make it harder for families to experience the beauty of our nation, support local businesses, attend community events, and celebrate America's heritage. Millions of Americans will travel this summer to visit Washington, D.C., and historic sites across the country as preparations continue for America's 250th anniversary celebrations, making affordable fuel even more important for families planning these trips."

The lawmakers requested detailed information on the Administration's efforts to lower gasoline prices and asked President Trump to respond by June 18, 2026. Specifically, they requested information regarding:

• Actions the Administration is taking to reduce gas prices in the near term;

• Whether a coordinated interagency strategy exists to address rising fuel costs;

• Analysis of the factors driving recent gasoline price increases;

• The Administration's assessment of the impact on working families, rural communities, and small businesses; and

• The benchmarks being used to determine whether Administration actions are successfully lowering prices.

The full letter can be found HERE.

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